6 American troops killed aboard U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter in Egypt Nine Line News Team November 12, 2020 Nine Line News 2,027 In what is the deadliest crash for the U.S. military this year, six American troops were killed aboard a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter that went down on Tiran Island off the southern coast of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula earlier today. Two other members of the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) were also killed – one French and one Czech. Another American (the ninth passenger) is said to have survived the crash, was airlifted by the peacekeeping force to the Israeli city of Eilat, and from there, flown to an Israeli hospital. According to Military Times, an Egyptian official said the UH-60 Black Hawk was on a reconnaissance mission and crashed near the island of Tiran, apparently because of a technical failure. The helicopter belonged to the international force that monitors the 40-year-old peace agreement between Israel and Egypt. Thirteen countries contribute troops to the mission, with the United States making up the largest contingent. “During a routine mission in the vicinity of Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, nine members of the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) were involved in a helicopter crash,” according to a statement from MFO. “We are deeply saddened to report that eight uniformed MFO members were killed; six U.S. citizens, one French, and one Czech. One U.S. MFO Member survived and was medically evacuated. Names are being withheld pending notification of next of kin.” “The MFO will conduct an investigation to determine the cause of the accident,” according to the statement. “At this point, there is no information to indicate the crash was anything except an accident. We greatly appreciate the cooperation and support of Egypt and Israel in the recovery effort. Acting Defense Secretary Christopher Miller confirmed those killed were all service members. In a statement released by the Pentagon, Miller said, “The Defense Department is deeply saddened by the loss of six U.S. and two partner nation service members in a helicopter crash in the Sinai Peninsula operating with the United Nations Multinational Force and Observers (MFO).” “Yesterday we recognized the sacrifice of millions of American veterans who have defended our nation for generations, and today we are tragically reminded of the last full measure our uniformed warriors may pay for their service.” “I extend the Department’s condolences to the families, friends and teammates of these service members.” Miller was named to the post just this week after Mark Esper was “terminated” by President Trump. While Islamic militant groups and a regional affiliate of the Islamic State group are known to be active in Sinai, the MFO said there were no signs of an attack. “At this point, there is no information to indicate the crash was anything except an accident,” it said. Military Times said a defense official confirmed there is “zero indication of malicious activity” involved in the crash. After celebrating our veterans yesterday, we must now add 6 more warriors who will be remembered next Memorial Day.
